Surprise, 49ers release QB B.J. Daniels

B.J. Daniels might clear waivers and be placed on the practice squad (NFL.com).

Stunning the 49ers would subject quarterback B.J. Daniels to the waiver wire. Good, young, mobile quarterbacks are as rare as hen’s teeth, and Daniels proved he was all those things. Hopefully, Daniels will clear waivers and return to the team as a practice-squad member.

The 49ers waived Daniels, a seventh-round pick from South Florida and Jim Harbaugh favorite Owen Marecic, then signed former Patriots’ second-round choice Jermaine Cunningham.

Daniels proved proficient in preseason, so much so, that some even considered him to be the second-string quarterback, ahead of veteran Colt McCoy.

Daniels possesses poise, a strong arm, and athleticism that’s reminiscent of Seattle’s Russell Wilson. It means Daniels could run any offense, including a read-option scheme. However, also like Wilson, Daniels is listed at 5-11. However he may be shorter than that.

The 49ers aren’t the only entity to blame for Daniels’ release. The NFL should place quarterbacks in a separate category, so teams are able to develop them. Should Daniels go elsewhere, that means a new system, new vernacular, new receivers and new expectations from new coaches.

The worst thing for a young quarterback is to be a vagabond and never settle in and develop. That’s why teams that don’t change systems or coaching staffs, should be allowed to keep their young quarterbacks for at least two years.

Third-string quarterbacks should also be allowed to be active on game days, so they can sneak in and get valuable garbage time minutes, which would be oxymoronic for any other position but quarterback.

The league does have a cadre of good, young quarterbacks, however, it’s not of their own doing. Colleges developed the likes of RGIII, Andrew Luck, Wilson and Colin Kaepernick.

However, more quarterbacks could rise out of the middle and late rounds, if only given the proper chance.